Seizure Disorder—Child

Definition

A
seizure
is abnormal electrical activity in the brain. When 2 or more seizures occur, it is considered a seizure disorder, also known as epilepsy. While there are many different types of seizures, the main categories are:

Generalized seizure—activity occurs throughout the brain

Partial seizure, also called a focal seizure—begins within certain areas of the brain

Treatment

You will work with the doctor to choose a treatment plan that is right for your child. Treatments options include:

Medication

There are many different kinds of medications to treat seizure disorder. The exact medication will be based on the specific type of seizures and symptoms your child has.
Anti-epileptic medications are a common option. In some cases, anti-epileptic medications may be used in combination.

Surgery

If medication does not work or the side effects are too severe, your child may need surgery. Surgery involves the removal of the area of the brain that starts the seizure. Surgery is only an option if your child has localized areas of the brain involved.

Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)

With VNS, a device is implanted in the chest to give electrical stimulation to the vagus nerve. This nerve runs from the brain to beyond the stomach. Stimulation can prevent or decrease the frequency of seizures. Medication may still be needed.

Ketogenic Diet

A ketogenic diet is a strict
diet. It is high in fat and low in carbohydrates and proteins. It keeps the body’s chemical balance in a state of ketosis. Ketosis decreases the frequency of seizures. If you would like your child to start this diet, talk to the doctor. Since your child needs proper nutrients, you will need to work with a dietician.

Other Lifestyle Changes

Your child's doctor may ask you to keep note of what was happening when your child had a seizure. This may help identify and make plans to avoid seizure triggers. These triggers can vary from child to child but some examples include:

Sleep deprivation

Stress

Hormonal changes common during the menstrual cycle

Flashing lights, such as strobe lights

Use of certain medications or drugs

Missing doses of anti-seizure medications

Help your child to decrease the chance of a seizure by:

Avoiding triggers

Making sure anti-seizure medication is taken as prescribed

Having your child get enough sleep

Finding ways to help your child avoid hyperventilating, such as by doing deep breathing exercises and meditation

Other things to consider:

Encourage your child to wear a medical alert bracelet. This will help people around your child understand what is happening if there is a seizure.

If your child’s condition is severe, take these steps to prevent serious injuries:

Do not allow your child to swim or bathe alone.

Do not have your child climb or play in areas where a serious fall could happen.

Talk to the doctor to find out which activities are safe for your child. Certain sports may need to be avoided.

Prevention

There are no known ways to prevent every type of seizure disorder. You can take steps to prevent your child from brain injuries or conditions that could lead to seizures:

Get prenatal care.

Be sure that your child always wears a helmet when doing certain activities such as bike riding, skateboarding, and playing contact sports.

Have your child wear seat belts or sit in a car seat when riding in a car.

Teach your child never to dive into water. To be safe, your child should always go into the water feet first.

Growing up with epilepsy: activities, safety, and first aid. Massachusetts General Hospital website. Available at:
http://www2.massgeneral.org/childhoodepilepsy/overview/index.htm. Accessed September 28, 2014.